The intelligence wing of the West Bengal police has been reportedly asking colleges for details of students from Jammu and Kashmir.

The note from the intelligence wing states: "Please let me know that students, whose residential addresses is under the state of Jammu & Kashmir, studies in your institution for onwards transmission to the Ministry of Home Affairs, North Block, New Delhi, Govt. of India." The authenticity of the note has been confirmed by the Joint Commissioner of Police (intelligence).

The West Bengal Police, according to the report, said it was approached by the central intelligence agencies for this information. The police claims that it was being done to maintain dossiers, so that they could keep a watch on the activities of these students.

The official said the ministry was told by the people of Jammu and Kashmir that their wards were being treated with suspicion and hostility outside the state.

Kashmiris jittery

Understandably, the report has made Kashmiris jittery. Many took to Twitter to express outrage.

Former Chief Minister and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah also took up the issue, and asked West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to look into the matter and ensure that students are not harassed.